NELSON – A lethargic West Indies slumped to an embarrassing four-wicket loss to minnows Ireland here Monday, as their ICC Cricket World Cup campaign began in nightmare fashion at Saxton Oval.
Defending 304 for seven on a flat track in great batting conditions following Lendl Simmons’ second One-Day hundred, the Windies attack bowled poorly and the Irish capitalised, comfortably reaching their target with 25 deliveries left in the innings.
They were propelled by Man Of The Match opener Paul Stirling, who smashed 92 off 84 deliveries, anchored two key partnerships at the top of the order and kept Ireland ticking along in the early stages ahead of the required run rate.
He was supported by Ed Joyce, who struck 84 from 67 balls, and Niall O’Brien, whose unbeaten 79 came from just 60 balls.
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